How to sign “Watching” in ASL

Everyday Basics

The BSL sign for “Watching” isn't in our dictionary yet — it will be fingerspelled in BSL mode, never replaced with this ASL sign.

Step by step

  1. Shape your dominant hand like a small telescope: thumb up, index finger extended, other fingers folded.
  2. Hold the hand beside your eye, aimed outward at what you are watching.
  3. Fix the aim steady and keep it pointed at the event.
  4. Keep your palm facing sideways, thumb resting on top.
  5. Fix your gaze in the same direction — your eyes and hand point together like a spectator.

Practice tip

“Watching” is signed with the base WATCH sign — ASL/BSL marks ongoing action on the sign, not with a separate word.

Fingerspell “Watching”

Letter by letter — a handy backup if you forget the sign above. This is not the sign itself.

ASL handshape for letter WASL handshape for letter AASL handshape for letter TASL handshape for letter CASL handshape for letter HASL handshape for letter IASL handshape for letter NASL handshape for letter G

See all ASL handshapes in the alphabet reference

Text-based guide researched from established ASL references (Lifeprint, university and public-health materials) and rewritten in original words. Signer-created photos and videos are a planned future upgrade.

Related signs

Browse all 1121 signs in the dictionary